Spice level warning — Risotto is not what I expected

I underestimated Risotto. The deeply savory description didn't prepare me for the reality. San Marzano tomatoes brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Italian cooking is intensely regional with little crossover between provinces. The a Sunday ragu lunch setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. sparkling mineral water cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.